An interactive approach for geotechnical engineering education

An interactive approach based on probing through questions and answers is proposed to help break the passive attitude of students and to develop the problem formulation solving skills unique to Geotechnical Engineering Education. Since the practice of Geotechnical Engineering is both an art and science, and requires both creativity and experience, the development of skills to think and absorb experiences should be an important part of Geotechnical Engineering Education. According to this approach, students are encouraged to go beyond the fundamentals of the course and develop a subject during specially assigned class period called "The Interactive Period". The result is a vigorous intellectual exchange among the students and the teacher; and the education of Geotechnical Engineering becomes more meaningful.